Senior Iranian Official Touts Violent Hijab Crackdown ‘Great Achievement’

Iran's Minister of Interior praised the brutal enforcement of the radical hijab regulation under the recent 'Noor' plan as one of the police's "greatest honors."

Ahmad Vahidi said the police actions in implementing the plan which have included violent beatings and sexual assaults, were in line with "protecting the family."

Since its initiation on April 13, the hijab crackdown has worsened under the legislation which came from a mass rejection of the Islamic dress code in the wake of the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement sparked by the death in policy custody of Mahsa Amini in 2022.

Meanwhile, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, claimed that the Noor plan was implemented with "minimal controversy", in a bid to undermine the global criticism that has ensued.

The rhetoric comes as the controversial "Protection of Family Through Promotion of Hijab and Chastity Culture" bill moves closer to becoming law. Despite requiring additional reviews after being initially rejected by the Guardian Council, the ultimate legislative authority, the bill’s harsh regulations are already being enforced. 

Women now face heightened risks, including arrest and travel bans for non-compliance with hijab mandates, and exclusion from public spaces and services.

The morality police have reasserted their presence on the streets with renewed vigor, particularly in Tehran’s central districts, following a period of reduced activity after the uprising which began in September 2022. 

Critics argue that such measures represent a deeper entrenchment of authoritarianism, with the police and judiciary increasingly infringing on individual rights and freedoms.